Elgin Police Officer charged with possession of child pornography

ELGIN — Attorney General Kwame Raoul announced on Dec. 6 that 33-year-old Jordan Collins of Kirkland has been charged with five counts of possession of child pornography, Class 2 felonies.

The case is part of Raoul’s ongoing work, in collaboration with federal law enforcement agencies and local law enforcement officials throughout Illinois, to apprehend offenders who download and trade child pornography online, according to a press release statement.

The felonies were filed in the Dekalb County Circuit Court, with each charge being punishable by up to seven years in prison, said Raoul.

Collins has been employed as a police officer for the Elgin Police Department for five years, however, seeing as he resides in DeKalb County, he is currently being detained at the DeKalb County Jail with his next court date scheduled to take place on Dec. 20.

“All child predators, particularly those in a position of authority, must be held accountable for the horrific crime of child pornography that can leave life-long scars on victims and their families,” stated Raoul. “I am absolutely committed to working with local law enforcement agencies to protect communities from offenders who exploit children—even if those individuals are themselves supposed to be keeping their communities safe.”

On Dec. 4, Raoul’s investigators, with the assistance of the DeKalb Sheriff’s Department, conducted a search of Collins’ residence located in the 400 block of First Street in Kirkland. Evidence of child pornography was discovered inside of his home, which resulted in Collins’ arrest the evening of Dec. 4, while he was on duty in Elgin.

“This officer was placed on administrative leave immediately following the arrest with additional action expected following review of the criminal charges,” said Elgin Police Chief Ana Lalley. “The criminal actions of a single police officer do not define the Elgin Police Department. This department will never deviate from upholding the highest standards of integrity, accountability, and dedication to the community it serves.”

Raoul’s office will co-prosecute this case with the DeKalb County State’s Attorney’s Office.

No further information will be released from the Elgin Police Department or the City of Elgin regarding Collins’ case.